The five-peat wasn’t to be — but if there’s one thing we’ve learned about the Penrith Panthers, it’s never to count them out. After four consecutive grand final appearances and three straight premierships, Ivan Cleary’s men finally came back down to earth in 2025. Their quest for a historic fifth-straight grand final ended in heartbreak, but it’s far from the end of the dynasty.
The Panthers’ 2025 campaign showed flashes of the brilliance that made them the NRL’s most dominant side of the modern era. Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, and Dylan Edwards continued to lead with class, while the system around them — built on relentless defence and structured attack — remained as formidable as ever. But the toll of four straight title runs and the natural cycle of roster changes finally caught up to them. Key departures and a few injuries disrupted their rhythm, and even Penrith’s elite consistency couldn’t paper over those cracks.
Still, to talk about the Panthers in 2025 as though their reign is over would be premature. The foundation remains rock solid. Cleary’s leadership, both as captain and playmaker, gives Penrith a tactical edge that few can match. His combination with Jarome Luai — should Luai remain healthy and settled — will again be central to their attack in 2026. And with players like Brian To’o, Liam Martin, and Dylan Edwards still at the peak of their powers, Penrith have a core capable of another serious push.
The biggest question heading into 2026 will be depth. Over the years, the Panthers’ success has forced them to lose valuable players to rival clubs — a byproduct of salary cap realities. Yet, their junior system remains one of the best in the game. The next generation of Panthers talent is already knocking on the door, with the club’s NSW Cup side again a powerhouse this season. If Cleary can unearth another batch of first-grade-ready youngsters, Penrith’s machine will keep humming.
There’s also the matter of motivation. After years of dominance, sustaining hunger becomes a test in itself. The heartbreak of missing the five-peat may, paradoxically, reignite their fire. For a team built on pride, work ethic, and resilience, falling short could serve as the perfect reset — a reminder that success in the NRL is never guaranteed. Expect the Panthers to use that pain as fuel.
The 2026 season could very well be another defining chapter in the Panthers’ legacy. While challengers like Brisbane, Melbourne, and the Roosters continue to strengthen, Penrith’s advantage lies in their culture — a standard of excellence that has become ingrained from the top down. Ivan Cleary’s calm authority, the leadership of his senior group, and the club’s unmatched production line of talent ensure that they will remain at the forefront of premiership conversations.
The five-peat dream might be over, but the dynasty isn’t. If anything, the Panthers’ setback in 2025 could mark the start of a new era of dominance — one defined not by records, but by resilience. And come 2026, don’t be surprised if the mountain men are standing tall once again, right back where they belong: in the fight for the NRL’s ultimate prize.
